Event Details

For more information on the Albany class contact: albanyaba@hotmail.com

Classes are an extra service offered by local groups to Australian Breastfeeding Association members. If you are not yet a member, please join at www.breastfeeding.asn.au/membership

Having a baby? Have you got questions about breastfeeding? Come to our relaxed information-packed sessions, for expectant mothers and fathers and learn about breastfeeding.

Although breastfeeding is natural, it doesn't always come easily and is a learned art. Most women given time and support can, and do, breastfeed. Our aim is to provide expectant parents with confidence to meet their personal breastfeeding goals.

Our courses are designed for expectant parents. These sessions aim to expand upon the knowledge gained at antenatal classes, to give up-to-date information and insights into breastfeeding a baby and parenting in the early days.

PLACES ARE LIMITED SO EARLY REGISTRATION IS RECOMMENDED

Why Attend?

Australian research has shown that new mothers wish they had received more preparation for breastfeeding and the early months of parenting prior to the birth of their baby. Attending an Australian Breastfeeding Association Breastfeeding Education Class compliments the knowledge gathered at antenatal classes, and gives you the opportunity to:

Learn some of the skills you will need to care for your new baby

Make informed choices about breastfeeding

Realistically prepare for the changes about to happen in your life

Discuss questions and concerns you may have about breastfeeding

Develop a support network before giving birth

Meet other women who share your commitment to breastfeeding

Find your own path amidst all the varying advice

Topics will cover:

How breastfeeding works?

Establishing breastfeeding and the first feed

Importance of skin-to-skin contact in the first hours and beyond

Positioning and attachment

Understanding your milk supply

Discussion of what is 'normal' for a breastfed baby

Role of partners in breastfeeding

Adjusting to parenthood - survival tips for the early days and weeks with a new baby

Common concerns and problem solving

The sessions include:

Up to date information and notes to keep

Breastfeeding mother and baby in attendance to demonstrate a breastfeed (when possible!)

Frequently Asked Questions:

At what stage of my pregnancy should I attend a class?

Please consider a class during your second trimester or early in your third trimester. This is to allow for the mother's comfort and babies who arrive early. Of course, we are also happy to accommodate those further along than this!

Should my partner come too?

Absolutely! They might not be doing the breastfeeding, but can be your major support and it really helps for them to learn everything with you. If your partner is not able to attend, you can bring along a friend or other support person if you wish.

I am having twins! Do you have a special class for me?

We currently do no have twins classes in Perth. However, you are welcome at our regular classes, where your special needs can be addressed.

My baby is due in the next few weeks. The class I want says it is fully booked! HELP!

Please book early to avoid disappointment as places are limited and classes fill up quickly. We are generally not able to take extra people and do not hold waiting lists for fully booked classes. However, your local group of the Australian Breastfeeding Association may have upcoming meetings you can attend before your baby is due.

How much does the class cost?

Our classes are exclusive to new or existing Australian Breastfeeding Association members. Membership costs $65 ($50 concession) for 12 months. The cost of the class is $20.00, plus a $2.19 booking fee. Total membership, class, and booking fee is $87.19

Registration and membership includes:

Approx. 3 hour workshop-style class, including time for refreshments

One-year membership of the Australian Breastfeeding Association, which includes

The book Breastfeeding ... naturally, valued at $35.00

Introduction to your local ABA network of discussions and other services for pregnant and new parents.

One year subscription to Australian Breastfeeding Association magazine "Essence"